He has a host of resources including market research and financial benchmarking at his fingertips that he can offer his clients, and all of the assistance is free.

Merchan's services are available to the region through the reinvigorated Connecticut Small Business Development Center, which has leveraged public and private funding to offer a dozen small business advisers throughout the state including Stamford, Bridgeport and Danbury.

"We are really trying to offer our clients services that aren't available elsewhere to help them grow their business," Merchan said Wednesday.

While businesses often reach out for advice in a crisis, Merchan urges companies to reach out when times are good.

"That's a great time to look at changes in the industry and potential future opportunities," he said. "I've been a business owner and I've been through the ups and downs."

Some of the tools at Merchan's disposal include financial data for similarly sized companies so owners can see if their costs are in line with their competitors, assistance with exporting their products along with market research for international locations, as well as local market research that can be used by local businesses to identify opportunities, estimate potential revenue streams, check out the competition and avoid potential pitfalls.

More Information

Connecticut Small Business Development CenterArea business adviser locations:Business Council of Fairfield County on Landmark Square in Stamford Bridgeport Regional Business Council on Middle Street in BridgeportGreater Danbury Chamber of Commerce on West Street in DanburyFor information or to request an appointment with an adviser, check out www.CTSBDC.com

"In the last few months, we've provided more than $50,000 worth of market research to our clients and all at no cost," Merchan said, adding they can assist just about any company in the region with less than 400 employees.

Chamber President Stephen Bull said the small business development center became reinvigorated last summer when Director Emily Carter was brought on board. Part-time regional advisers are available on a full-time basis and regionally based to be closer to their clients.

"The best way to promote a business resource locally is through the regional chamber," he said. "It's phenomenal to have this service available through our office. Nelson provides a wealth of knowledge and resources."

Because Merchan speaks Spanish, bilingual assistance will be invaluable to assist the region's Latino-owned businesses.

"It's important to reach this new and growing population of entrepreneurs in our community," he said. "It's a wonderful partnership and we are thrilled to have this service."